I've been stimulated by the recent discussion on the disappointing
(some say disastrous) rate of land clearing and the very real threats
to habitats.
Many respondents have listed some positive action. I
agree that a combination of regulation and financial incentive is
required to halt land clearing in regions which will not sustain
agriculture. We also need to put to rest finally the notion that
Australia is a never ending land resource just waiitng to be
developed.
I have seen some other postive steps. Red rumped parrots breed in the
trees of Woolhara golf course (I know golf courses have been fully
discussed) and for several days I watched a bush thick knees nest
near the first hole at Port Douglas. The Mirage at Port Douglas has a
policy of preserving rare plant species in their gardens - obviously
at no cost to the tax payer. Apparently this is part of a network
of hotels doing this work. I'm sure this could be extended to some
bird species.
(If you're ever up that way you can see some fantastic
birds in these - gardens from sunbirds to owls and osprey - also in
trees in nearby camping grounds)
I've seen redrumps attempting to nest in the plane trees on
Fitzroy St Surry Hills, Sydney (check your Gregorys). They probably
came across from the Centannial Park population.
While urban and developed sites are not adequate for a full diversity
of species, they can be one of a number of positive responses.
Encourage urban trees, and private businesses with land to look at
the possibilities. It is good for their PR.
Steve
Stephen Martin
State Library of New South Wales
Sydney, Australia
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